Yes, we can still track contributions using your account number for record-keeping. However, under our updated system, your name, email address, phone and family details are primarily all that's needed for identification and stewardship tracking.

Our preferred and most secure method is through:

• PushPay (our online giving platform). It allows easy one-time donations, recurring payments, and tracking.
• You can also donate by check or cash (in person).

Stewardship is a voluntary commitment based on your circumstances and relationship with God. If a pledge isn't fully met, it may affect your status as a "member in good standing" (per Archdiocese guidelines and our parish By-Laws), which is required for certain privileges like voting in parish assemblies, serving on parish council, or sponsoring sacraments (e.g., as a godparent).

We understand life circumstances vary—please reach out to the priest or stewardship committee for confidential discussion and support.

Yes, we will continue mailing envelopes until further notice. We cherish our tradition of passing the basket during services, but if you've already contributed toward your stewardship pledge (e.g., online or by other means), please don't feel obligated to use the basket. All gifts are appreciated and help our parish.

No—our parish is open and welcoming to all who wish to worship, pray, and join in fellowship. The Orthodox Church is for everyone.

However, certain activities and groups (e.g., folk dance troupes, youth groups, or parish council service) may require membership in good standing, which includes stewardship commitment.

Per the Uniform Parish Regulations of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, a member in good standing is someone who:

• Is baptized or chrismated in the Orthodox Church.
• Lives according to the faith and canons.
• Has met their stewardship obligation (typically completing the prior year's commitment and submitting/offering toward the current year's pledge of time, talent, and treasure).
• Abides by parish bylaws.

Per the Ss. Constantine and Helen By-Laws, Article VI (Parishioners):

MEMBER IN GOOD STANDING: A member in good standing is any person 21 years of age or older, or emancipated, who has contributed a minimum of the current yearly dues, as established by the Parish General Assembly, or is up to date in the payment of the current year's dues to the parish. Notwithstanding, the requirements set forth herein as to the member in good standing, the Parish Council shall have the discretion to reduce the minimum contribution in cases of financial hardship.

This status enables full participation in parish governance and certain sacramental roles.

As a steward, you actively participate in the life of the parish and the broader Church. This includes voting rights in parish assemblies (if 21+ and in good standing), eligibility to receive sacraments without restriction, and the spiritual blessing of supporting our ministries through your gifts.

Yes—stewardship is holistic and includes time and talent in addition to treasure.

• Time: Volunteering for ministries, attending services regularly, or helping with events.
• Talent: Sharing skills (e.g., teaching Sunday school, singing in the choir, maintaining facilities, organizing outreach, or using professional expertise for parish needs).

Examples from Archdiocese literature: Serving as a greeter, helping with youth programs, or offering administrative help are all valuable forms of stewardship that strengthen the Body of Christ.

We understand—stewardship is not about a fixed amount but about grateful giving from what you have. If financial circumstances prevent a monetary pledge, focus on offering your time and talents (see above). Your participation in worship, service, and community is a meaningful stewardship offering.

Please speak with the priest for guidance; no one is excluded from full spiritual participation.

Primarily, stewardship pledges support general parish operations and ministries. Other designated donations (e.g., Easter flowers, building maintenance, candles, memorials) are separate and do not count toward your stewardship pledge.

All donations are tax-deductible (as our parish is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit) and will be reflected on your annual giving statement.

Beyond time, talent, and treasure, you can offer:

• Prayer and spiritual support for our community.
• Inviting friends/family to services or events (evangelism/outreach).
• Helping with hospitality, fellowship meals, or welcoming newcomers.
• Legacy giving (planned gifts for the parish's future).
• Sharing feedback to improve ministries.

Everything you offer, big or small, builds up the Body of Christ.